Are there items, objects or rituals that represent or help you express submission? If not, have you ever thought of adding or being gifted one? Is there a special significance to these objects or rituals?
2012
I’ve never set out to acquire a symbolic object, but find myself surrounded by them. They are simple objects: the lump of concrete that reminds me of my passion for my profession, the small fish reminding me to be humble and open, the receipt reminding me that change is coming. They are not significant because of what they are, but because of the memories associated with them. These things remind me that there is more to life than the crisis of the moment and help me to be calm and focused. It seems inevitable that something to do with submission will eventually be added to the mix.
***
2017
Less than a week after this exercise ended, I had acquired such a symbol, and have worn it ever since. . . .Well, except for a few periods when it was handed over to the local jeweller for repairs. And when I have to take it off for work, an action with appropriate symbolism as well.
It still serves as a powerful reminder of what I am, of the side to me that is visible only to those who know how to look. I like that it is something plain, small, ordinary. Something that I got for myself, by myself. A souvenir of a turbulent time, and a reminder of hope.
I smile reading back at how I knew even then that the heart would face always outwards. At the time, this was a symbol of emotional openness. Now that I feel myself drawn to a polyamorous lifestyle, I wonder if initial stirrings of that attraction were present even then.
Whatever the reasons, it’s a symbol I am happy to wear.
Acknowledging Imperfection 